I hear this a lot in business. People want to start in the game for their company…yet their boss keeps them “on the bench.”  They may want to get access to the larger account…or make more money…or get more responsibility…or get that promotion. Whatever “starting” means to you is fine.

But, it amazes me how most people go to their manager with a demand: “Play me!”

Think about the arrogance of that. Instead, it seems to me that if someone is riding the bench and wants to start they must realize some facts. (I write this in sports analogy—and if you have a son/daughter who is not getting as much “playing time” as they’d like, give this to them. It all applies.)

1. Most coaches believe that who they’re playing is in the team’s best interest. Even if they aren’t playing the best people, they have a reason—and that becomes their belief.  (Resist thinking there is some conspiracy theory to keep you on the bench.)
2. Every team has VOIDS in their line-ups that need filling. No team is perfect. Sports teams have voids all the time. Sometimes you have to look for them.
3. That to play, the coach must see you as a bigger contributor in the lineup than the players he currently has in. Pretty simple concept, but one that is missed frequently. Read more